Candice Samuels https://candicesamuels.com The Empowered Mom Blog Fri, 29 Nov 2024 23:44:53 +0000 en-ZA hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://candicesamuels.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/cropped-C-1-32x32.png Candice Samuels https://candicesamuels.com 32 32 Self-Care That Sticks: Real Tips for Busy Moms https://candicesamuels.com/self-care-that-sticks-real-tips-for-busy-moms/ https://candicesamuels.com/self-care-that-sticks-real-tips-for-busy-moms/#respond Fri, 29 Nov 2024 23:44:53 +0000 https://candicesamuels.com/?p=689

Let’s face it—when someone says “self-care,” you either roll your eyes or laugh nervously. Because who has time for bubble baths and journaling marathons when your toddler is busy painting the walls with spaghetti sauce?

But here’s the thing: self-care doesn’t have to look like a spa day or a weekend retreat. It can be small, meaningful moments that remind you—you’re a priority, too. So grab your cold coffee, Mama, and let’s dive into some realistic self-care tips you can actually stick to (no guilt allowed).


1. Start Your Day with a Tiny Ritual

Mornings can feel like a circus, but carving out even 5 minutes for yourself can set the tone for your entire day.

  • Example: Brew your coffee and sip it while it’s still hot (I know, wild idea). Pair it with one deep breath or a quick affirmation like, “I’m ready for whatever today brings.”
  • Why It Works: Starting your day with intention reminds you that YOU matter, even amidst the chaos.

2. The Power of Micro-Moments

Think self-care needs to be an hour-long yoga class? Think again. Micro-moments—tiny pauses in your day—can work wonders.

  • Examples:
    • Spend 2 minutes stretching while your kids finish their snack.
    • Step outside for 30 seconds of fresh air.
    • Close your eyes and take 3 deep breaths before tackling the next tantrum.
  • Pro Tip: Use your phone alarm to remind you to pause and reset during the day.

3. Ask for Help Without Guilt

Newsflash: you don’t have to do it all alone. Asking for help isn’t weakness—it’s strength.

  • How: Delegate small tasks to your partner, family, or even your kids (hello, chore charts!).
  • Mindset Shift: Instead of saying, “I shouldn’t need help,” reframe it as, “Asking for help makes me a better mom.”

4. Self-Care Doesn’t Need to Cost Money

Who said self-care has to come with a price tag? Some of the best ways to recharge are totally free.

  • Ideas:
    • Take a solo walk around the block.
    • Dance it out in your kitchen (bonus points if your kids join in).
    • Journal three things you’re grateful for while your baby naps.
  • Bonus: Free self-care often feels the most authentic—it’s about nurturing YOU, not buying into trends.

5. Set Boundaries with Your Time

Say it with me: “No is a full sentence.” Whether it’s declining an event or setting limits with screen time for the kids, protecting your time is the ultimate form of self-care.

  • Example: Turn your phone on Do Not Disturb for 15 minutes to focus on YOU.
  • Affirmation: “I deserve to say no to things that don’t serve me.”

6. Make Room for Joy (Yes, Joy!)

Self-care doesn’t have to feel serious. Do something that genuinely lights you up.

  • Ideas:
    • Binge-watch a show guilt-free.
    • Start that hobby you’ve been putting off (knitting, anyone?).
    • Call a friend who makes you laugh until your belly hurts.
  • Why It Matters: Joy is energizing. When you’re happier, your family feels it too.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

Moms are quick to notice what didn’t get done. Let’s flip that narrative. Celebrate the small wins—because they’re worth it.

  • Example: Did you finally drink enough water today? Celebrate it! Did you get the kids to bed on time? High-five yourself!
  • Gratitude Tip: Keep a “win journal” to remind yourself of your daily victories.

Why Self-Care Isn’t Selfish

When you take care of yourself, you show up as the best version of YOU. And let’s be honest: a well-rested, joyful mama is the best gift you can give your family.

Remember, self-care doesn’t have to be perfect—it just has to be intentional. So tell me, Mama: what’s one small self-care ritual you’ll try this week? Drop it in the comments, and let’s cheer each other on. Because you deserve to feel cared for, too. 💛


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Mom, You’ve Got This: Crush Doubt & Build Your Confidence https://candicesamuels.com/mom-youve-got-this-crush-doubt-build-your-confidence/ https://candicesamuels.com/mom-youve-got-this-crush-doubt-build-your-confidence/#respond Fri, 29 Nov 2024 13:42:37 +0000 https://candicesamuels.com/?p=679

Let me guess—you’ve spent just a little too much time scrolling social media, seeing other moms who seem to have it all together. Meanwhile, you’re wondering if that cold cup of coffee counts as “self-care.” I get it. Confidence can feel out of reach when you’re juggling a million things and your to-do list just won’t quit.

But here’s the thing, Mama: confidence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up as YOU—flaws, messy buns, late-night doubts, and all. So let’s dive into five practical steps to silence that inner critic and embrace your strengths. Because if anyone deserves to feel unstoppable, it’s you.


1. Silence the Inner Critic

You know that little voice whispering, “You’re not good enough”? Time to put her in her place. That voice is nothing but fear in disguise, trying to keep you from stepping into your power.

  • Hack: Replace negative thoughts with empowering affirmations. Try:
    “I am capable, I am resilient, I am enough.”
  • Tip: Keep a journal to write down one thing you’re proud of every day—it rewires your brain to focus on the positives.

2. Set Boundaries Without Guilt

Let me say it louder for the people in the back: “No” is a complete sentence. Whether it’s turning down another PTA bake sale or saying no to toxic relationships, setting boundaries is one of the most confident things you can do.

  • Example: Instead of over-explaining, practice this:
    “Thanks for thinking of me, but I can’t commit right now.”
  • Mindset Shift: Boundaries aren’t selfish—they’re self-care.

3. Build Confidence Through Daily Habits

Confidence doesn’t magically appear—it’s built brick by brick through consistent action.

  • Start Small: Commit to one daily habit that makes you feel strong. Maybe it’s a morning gratitude list, 10 minutes of yoga, or dressing up (even if you’re not leaving the house).
  • Momentum is Key: Celebrate the small wins, like choosing to prioritize yourself for five minutes. Those tiny actions add up.

4. Surround Yourself with the Right People

The company you keep can either fuel your confidence or drain it. Surround yourself with friends who cheer you on, not ones who leave you doubting your worth.

  • Pro Tip: Join online communities (like my Facebook group!) where you can connect with other supportive, like-minded moms.
  • Inspiration: One of my clients, Mabel, shared how connecting with an uplifting community gave her the courage to start her dream side hustle after years of doubting herself.

5. Rewrite Your Mom Story

Newsflash: your worth is not defined by how spotless your house is or whether you pack Pinterest-worthy lunches. Confidence comes from rewriting those stories we tell ourselves.

  • Affirmation: “I am a good mom, not because of what I do, but because of who I am.”
  • Reflection: Write down the lies you’ve been telling yourself (e.g., “I’m failing my family”) and flip them into truths (e.g., “I show up for my family in ways that matter.”).

Real Mom Stories: From Doubt to Confidence

Want proof it’s possible? Let me introduce you to Me! A mom of three, who spent years doubting myself. By setting boundaries, finding my tribe, and building new habits, I not only reclaimed my confidence but also launched a business that lights me up. My words:
“The moment I stopped comparing myself to others and started focusing on what made me happy, everything shifted.”


Final Pep Talk:

Confidence isn’t about being fearless—it’s about showing up despite the fear. Every time you silence that inner critic, set a boundary, or take a small step toward your dreams, you’re rewriting the narrative. You’re proving to yourself and your kids that they, too, can be confident and unstoppable.

So tell me, Mama: what’s one small step you can take today to boost your confidence? Drop it in the comments below—I’d love to cheer you on!


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10 Game-Changing Mom Hacks for Your Sanity https://candicesamuels.com/10-game-changing-mom-hacks-for-your-sanity/ https://candicesamuels.com/10-game-changing-mom-hacks-for-your-sanity/#respond Fri, 29 Nov 2024 13:16:22 +0000 https://candicesamuels.com/?p=669

Let’s Be Real, Mom Life is No Joke
Hey there, mama! Let me guess—your days are a whirlwind of school drop-offs, never-ending laundry piles, and trying to figure out what to cook for dinner (again). Sound familiar? As moms, we juggle more than a circus performer, and sometimes, it feels like there just aren’t enough hours in the day.

But here’s the good news: life doesn’t have to feel this overwhelming. I’ve rounded up 10 game-changing mom hacks that will help you save time, stretch your budget, and (most importantly) reclaim a bit of your sanity. These hacks are simple, practical, and totally doable—even on your busiest days. Let’s dive in!


1. Meal Prep: Your Best Friend in the Kitchen

You don’t need to be a professional chef to crush meal prep. Dedicate one hour on Sundays to batch cooking staples like grilled chicken, roasted veggies, and rice or pasta. Keep these in airtight containers, and boom—you’ve got mix-and-match meals ready to go for the week.

Hack Bonus: Use silicone muffin trays to freeze soups, sauces, or baby food into perfect portions. Pop them out as needed!


2. The 15-Minute Cleaning Rule

Let’s face it—keeping a spotless home with kids running around is basically impossible. Instead of stressing, set a timer for 15 minutes and tackle one area at a time. Start with the visible clutter, and work your way out.

Pro Tip: Keep a basket in every main room for quick “throw it all in and hide it” clean-ups before guests arrive!


3. Save Big on Kid Activities

Kid activities don’t have to break the bank. Check your local library for free storytime sessions or craft workshops. If you’re looking for outdoor fun, create a backyard treasure hunt or try a DIY obstacle course.

Pro Tip: Sign up for kids’ memberships at local museums or play gyms—these often come with free events or perks.


4. The Toy Rotation Trick

Feeling like your living room has turned into a toy store? Try toy rotation! Divide your kids’ toys into 3 or 4 bins, and only bring out one bin at a time. Store the others out of sight. Not only does this reduce clutter, but it also makes old toys feel new again when you rotate them back in!


5. “Me Time” in Micro Moments

Self-care doesn’t have to mean a spa day (although, wouldn’t that be nice?). Steal small moments for yourself:

  • Listen to a podcast during carpool.
  • Use nap time for a quick yoga session.
  • Treat yourself to your favorite snack once the kids are in bed.

Mantra: You can’t pour from an empty cup, mama. Make yourself a priority.


6. The Bedtime Reset Hack

Once the kids are asleep, spend 10 minutes resetting the house. Load the dishwasher, pack school lunches, and prep your coffee station for the next morning. Waking up to a semi-clean slate is a total mood booster!


7. Grocery Pickup for the Win

Why spend an hour wrestling with tantrums in the snack aisle when you can order groceries online? Services like Checkers60 or PicknPay Asap are lifesavers. You’ll save time, avoid impulse buys, and stick to your budget.


8. Create a “Grab-and-Go” Station

Mornings are chaos, but a little prep can save the day. Designate a basket or shelf near the door for essentials like backpacks, lunchboxes, and shoes. This way, you’re not scrambling to find that missing sneaker when it’s time to head out the door.


9. Keep Kids Entertained While You Work

Whether you need to make a call or squeeze in some work-from-home hours, keep a stash of quiet-time activities ready:

  • Coloring books and crayons.
  • Sensory bins (think rice or kinetic sand).
  • A playlist of audiobooks or kid-friendly podcasts.

10. Embrace the Power of Saying No

Sometimes, the best way to save your time and sanity is simply by saying no. You don’t have to bake cookies for every school fundraiser or attend every PTA meeting. Protect your time and energy for what truly matters—your family and yourself.


Your Supermom Cape Looks Good on You!
There you have it—10 simple but powerful mom hacks to make your life a little easier. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help, to let the laundry pile up for another day, and to take time for YOU. You’re doing an amazing job, even when it feels hard.

Which of these hacks are you going to try this week? Drop your favorite in the comments, or share your own go-to mom hack—I’m always looking for more ideas to make life easier!

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